Summary
In 2020, the Victorian Government in Australia passed Great Ocean Road and Environs Protection Act 2020, declaring the Great Ocean Road and its environs to be a living and integrated natural entity. The legislation, which includes Traditional Owner language, reformed the management of the Great Ocean Road and its surrounding landscapes by establishing a Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority and imbedding Traditional Owner knowledge and culture into management. The Authority is made up of various experts as well as a nominee from each specified Aboriginal party.
The Statement of Expectations sets out the priority areas for the performance and functions; operations excellence in parks management, First People’s self-determination, visitor enjoyment and appreciation, community engagement and long-term financial sustainability.
From its commencement, the Authority has had existing revenue streams from the public land that it manages, including several caravan parks. The Authority invests all revenue it raises back into the land it manages.
The Authority also receives Government funding for its activities. Since its commencement on 1 December 2020, the Government has provided the Authority with additional funding to improve visitor facilities, coastal protection works and erosion preparedness, and conservation projects.